Issue Articles
Peter “Chuck” Badie (1925-2023)
Beyond being a master of the upright bass, Peter “Chuck” Badie was blessed with an astounding memory. He’d tell stories of the early days in his career and say things like, “It was a Tuesday night in 1952” and then name every musician on the bandstand. Peter “Chuck” Badie died on April 15, 2023, at the age of 97.
New Breed Brass Band: Made in New Orleans (Treme Records)
New Breed Brass Band’s totally kickin’ recently released album could only be, as the title and music indicate, Made in New Orleans. It’s doubtful if anyone can argue with that because the Crescent City’s street culture permeates the attitude and beats that are heard emanating from the social and pleasure clubs’ parades, the Black Indians, and yes, hip-hop that also lives among the longer-established traditions—and is embraced by a next generation of musicians and friends who hang and play together.
Johnny Vidacovich: Out Da Box (Paw Maw Music)
Johnny Vidacovich’s name is magic in circles where great rhythm and finesse are king. That Out Da Box boasts the drummer’s handle makes sense in arousing strong interest. His stamp is definitely here though he is credited as a co-composer on only one of the 12 tunes on the disc.
Brad Walker + Extended: Side By Side (Independent)
On Side By Side saxophonist Brad Walker teams up with the trio of musicians—keyboardist Oscar Rossignoli, bassist Matt Booth and drummer Brad Webb—known collectively as Extended. It’s a familiar setting for him—as well as them—having hooked up fairly often at live performances. They also share a certain like-mindedness in the way they musically converse on primarily original material coming from the pens of Walker, Booth and Webb.
Edward “Kidd” Jordan (1935-2023)
Edward “Kidd” Jordan – “I’m Playing the Song of Life” An eclectic array of wonderful music, sincere tributes and some humorous remembrances filled Gallier Hall at a Celebration of Life […]
Diggin’ Her New Hometown: Dee Dee Bridgewater is a vocal powerhouse
Three-time Grammy winner, vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater leads her own bands, has played with countless jazz legends and continues to perform concerts around the world. Yet considering her very impressive resume, she’s nonetheless particularly eager about her appearance at the 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Jazz Icon Ellis Marsalis’ ELM Records: David Torkanowsky pays tribute to the ELM Music Company
It’s actually a rarity to see David Torkanowsky leading an ensemble at Jazz Fest. That’s not to say it’s rare to see him, one of New Orleans’ finest, most talented and spontaneous musicians, at the piano on a festival stage.
Joy, Celebration and Comfort: Connie and Dwight Fitch married in life and to gospel music.
Connie & Dwight Fitch Saturday May 6 at 11:15 a.m., Gospel Tent Sunday May 7 at 4 p.m., Alison Miner Stage Connie and Dwight Fitch, a married couple in life […]
Roderick Paulin leads the congregation
Though multiple reedman Roderick Paulin has performed at the French Quarter Festival numerous times, including with his father, the late trumpeter Ernest “Doc” Paulin, his siblings in the Paulin Brothers Brass Band, bassist Mark Brooks, trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis and others, this appearance marks the first time leading his own band at the fest.
